Wadebridge

WADEBRIDGE, a small market-town, partly in the parish of St. Breock, hundred of Pyder, and partly in that of Egloshayle, hundred of Trigg, union of Bodmin, E. division of Cornwall, 8 miles (E. S. E.) from Padstow, and 7 (W. N. W.) from Bodmin; containing 777 inhabitants. This place is chiefly remarkable for its noble bridge of seventeen arches, nearly 320 feet long, over the navigable river Camel; the structure was raised about 1485, and certain estates are vested in trustees for keeping it in repair. The river is navigable to the town for vessels of 150 tons' burthen; commodious wharfs and quays have been constructed, and a quantity of granite and of copper and iron ore is shipped. From its trade also in corn, and its advantageous situation in connexion with a contemplated breakwater, Wadebridge promises, at no distant period, to be one of the most flourishing towns in the county. A railway extends for twelve miles, in a direction nearly parallel with the river, to Wentworth Bridge, where a branch of two miles runs to Bodmin, and another of nearly a mile to Ruthern Bridge; it was completed at an expense of £35,000, and opened to the public in September, 1834. A discharging dock has been constructed, which, with the quay, is capable of containing five vessels; and another dock, for the reception of sand-barges, has been formed at the expense of Sir W. Molesworth, Bart. The market, which is of ancient establishment, is on Friday; and fairs are held on March 3rd, May 12th, June 22nd, and October 10th. There are places of worship for the Society of Friends, Independents, and Wesleyans.